Your A4-Size Business Companion: Choosing the Best Compact Notebook. Part II. Page 12

Today we are offering you the second article in the series devoted to the compact notebook solutions from the leading laptop designers and manufacturers. We will discuss the models from ASUS, Dell, Sony, Terra and Toshiba falling into sub-$2500 price category.

Configuration and Accessories

The package includes everything you may need to work with the notebook, but without any extras.

The small power adapter with a LED indicator is manufactured by Delta Electronics and supports 100-240V, 50-60Hz input AC.

And this is a black bag of some water-resistant material (not absolutely waterproof, I should confess) with numerous pockets and compartments.

The pouch is made of a rather thick and soft synthetic fabric. It will keep the notebook protected against damage as you are carrying it around in your bag or rucksack.

And you also get an external wireless mouse. The mouse, especially a wireless one, is always better than the touchpad if you’re working at a desk. This mouse is quite ordinary, with just two buttons and a wheel. The wireless interface is integrated into the notebook, so it only supports ASUS’ own devices (or compatible).

Performance

This is a really high speed – the second best result in this test session! The hard drive is the only subsystem of this notebook to have an average performance score. So, the ASUS W5G00A is an example of a well-equipped compact notebook for work that ensures an excellent performance and an enhanced functionality (I mean the integrated camera that you can freely turn around). One thing that raises my concerns is the battery life parameter. On one hand, the result comes naturally from the notebook’s configuration, but taken as they are, the numbers are not quite satisfactory. My recommendation would be to buy an extended-capacity or just a second standard-capacity battery along with this model.

My own experience with the W5G00A was highly positive. This computer is fast and ergonomic (if you don’t mind the smaller keys in the right part of the keyboard) and it is going to suit perfectly for businessmen who need to frequently change their whereabouts. The only thing that sets this machine apart from top-end notebooks is that it lacks a discrete graphics processor, but I think the small size of the computer is more important for business applications than its ability to run 3D shooters.